Working in UAE: All about WPP Insurance UAE

What is WPP Insurance UAE?

The Workers Protection Program (WPP) Insurance is a mandatory, financial safety net created by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). It helps workers get paid if their employers are unable to pay their salaries or benefits due to financial difficulties.

Instead of requiring employers to put down a large bank guarantee for each employee, WPP Insurance provides a cost-effective and effective way to ensure that workers receive their rightful pay.

Workmen Protection Plan UAE: A Flashback

• Before the Workmen Protection Insurance in UAE, employers needed to provide a bank guarantee of at least AED 3,000 per worker
• This system caused issues —
  • Employers faced cash flow problems due to large deposits
  • Employees had limited protection if employers went bankrupt
• To fix these problems, the UAE Cabinet replaced the bank guarantee with a low-cost insurance scheme
• In 2018, WPP Insurance was introduced by the Insurance Pool under MOHRE’s supervision
• The new system is more flexible and affordable for employers

What are the Goals of WPP Insurance UAE?

• Lessen financial strain on businesses  
• Guarantee quicker payments to workers during disagreements or financial issues
• Enhance stability in the UAE job market

Why is WPP Policy UAE Important?

Here’s why WPP insurance is important in the UAE —

• Protects Workers - It makes sure that employees get paid, even if their employer can’t pay them
• Good for Employers - It removes the need for big bank deposits, making it easier to manage cash requirements for businesses
• Covers Various Risks - It protects against unpaid wages, end-of-service benefits, and injuries at work

For Employers —

• Less Financial Pressure - No need to set aside large bank deposits, which helps with cash flow
• Meets Legal Requirements - It helps employers follow the rules set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) 
• Better Cash Flow - It frees up money for other business needs  
• Easy to Sign Up - You can get insurance quickly using the simple process with MOHRE-approved insurers
• Good Reputation - It shows that the company cares about its employees' well-being

What is Covered under Workmen Protection Insurance Dubai?

Since the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) introduced the Workers’ Protection Programme (WPP) in 2018, it has helped ensure that workers receive their wages if their company goes bankrupt. Employers have two choices to meet this requirement:

• Bank Guarantee - Employers can get a bank guarantee from a UAE bank, with a minimum amount of AED 3,000 for each worker.
• Insurance Policy - Alternatively, they can choose an insurance plan that covers up to AED 20,000 for each worker.

This insurance is meant to protect workers from financial issues. This could be their employer going bankrupt or failing to meet legal wage obligations. If the insurance company pays a worker under this policy, the employer must pay the insurance provider.

WPP insurance in the UAE offers financial protection for workers in case their employer can't fulfil their responsibilities. It includes –

• End-of-service benefits - Ensures employees get their final paycheck and any additional benefits when they leave the job
• Unpaid salary - Assists employees if they don't receive their wages from their employer
• Repatriation of remains - Pays for transporting an employee's body back to their home country if they pass away
• Injuries related to work - Covers medical costs and compensation if an employee is injured on the job
• Returning back home - Covers travel expenses if an employee needs to go back home in case their employer cannot keep them employed

Who Should Enrol in WPP Insurance in UAE?

As per the regulations set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), every private sector employer is required to secure either a bank guarantee or Workmen Protection Plan (WPP) policy in UAE for their employees. This requirement applies to-

• Companies that employ expatriate workers with work permits
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as well as large corporations
• Businesses across various sectors, including construction, retail, and services

However, it's worth noting that some government institutions and companies operating within free zones may have different regulations. Thus, employers need to consult MOHRE or their specific free zone authority to ensure compliance.

How to Register for the Workment Protection Plan in UAE?

Here are simple steps to get a WPP policy in UAE —

• Step 1 - Determine how many employees need coverage
• Step 2 - Visit the official website — https://www.mohre.gov.ae/en/home.aspx
• Step 3 - Choose the ‘Workers Protection Program’ option
• Step 4 - You’ll be redirected to the ‘Insurance Pool’ website
• Step 5 - Click ‘Subscribe here’ under ‘Workers Protection Program’
• Step 6 - Apply on the Insurance Pool website
• Step 7 - Choose the number of certificates you need and pay the insurance premium for your employees
• Step 8 - The insurer will provide you with a certificate confirming coverage
• Step 9 - Keep records and remember to renew your insurance on time to stay compliant

Frequently Asked Questions